Kansas City, Missouri – Jackson County drivers may find familiar routes suddenly cut off this week, even though the work will not involve a major highway reconstruction project. A series of daytime ramp closures is planned as crews improve lighting along Interstate 435 and Interstate 670.
The closures are short, but their location could create longer detours for motorists traveling through some of Kansas City’s busiest highway connections. The Missouri Department of Transportation said all scheduled work remains dependent on the weather.
The first closure is planned for Wednesday, July 22. Between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m., crews will close the ramp connecting southbound I-435 with 87th Street. Drivers who normally use that exit should prepare to take another route before reaching the work area.
More closures will follow Thursday, July 23, with work concentrated around I-670.
From 9 a.m. until 1 p.m., the entrance ramp from Truman Road to eastbound I-670 will be closed. During the same four-hour period, motorists will not be able to use the ramp from eastbound I-670 to southbound U.S. 71.
Two additional closures will remain in place longer that day. Between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., crews will close the ramp from Wyoming Street to eastbound I-670, along with the connection from eastbound I-670 to southbound I-35.
Because several ramps will be affected within overlapping time periods, drivers traveling through the downtown highway network may encounter unexpected changes even if the main interstate lanes remain open. Motorists should check their routes before leaving and allow additional time, particularly during the late morning and early afternoon hours.
MoDOT is also reminding drivers to slow down and pay close attention whenever they enter a work zone. Highway work does not always involve large construction equipment or long lines of barriers. Some work zones are moving operations used for striping, patching or mowing, while others may consist of temporary closures needed to complete repairs or clear debris.
The lighting work is expected to be completed within the announced daytime windows. However, rain or other unsuitable conditions could change the schedule, so drivers should remain alert for updated signs and traffic controls near each affected ramp.
